Galicia is gaining ground among French tourists who traditionally chose Portugal for their Atlantic holidays. The northern region of Spain, close to the Portuguese border, is now emerging as an increasingly popular alternative for those looking for beaches, gastronomy and lower prices during the summer.
According to the newspaper, searches made in France related to travel to Galicia have increased by 120% in the last two years, in a trend that is changing the usual tourist map of the Iberian Peninsula.
Porto no longer leads alone
For several years, Portuguese cities, such as Porto, were among the favorite destinations for French tourists looking for Atlantic getaways. However, demand is now starting to move towards northern Spain. According to the same source, Galicia offers characteristics similar to those found in Portugal, especially in terms of landscape, Atlantic culture and gastronomy, but with costs considered lower for those who travel.
The economic factor appears as one of the main arguments for this change in preference among French tourists, especially at a time when travel prices remain high in several European cities. The newspaper writes that a three-star hotel in Vigo, for example, is around 65 euros per night during high season, while a similar experience in Porto can exceed 110 euros.
Gastronomy weighs in the choice
In addition to accommodation, the price difference is also felt at the table. Galician gastronomy continues to be one of the most valued elements by those who visit the region. According to the same source, a dish of Galician-style octopus can cost around 14 euros, while similar dishes in Lisbon cost close to 22 euros. Galician seafood also remains among the most sought after by visitors.
In recent years, northern Spain has been gaining popularity among foreign tourists looking for alternatives to the more crowded areas of the Mediterranean. El Economista reports that regions, such as Galicia, manage to combine the Atlantic coast, fishing villages, cliffs and nature with more moderate temperatures during the summer, something valued by many French travelers.
Common heritage between Galicia and Portugal
The cultural proximity between the north of Portugal and Galicia also helps to explain this tourist rapprochement between the two territories. According to the same source, Galician-Portuguese served as a linguistic unit until the 14th century, leaving cultural and historical marks that are still reflected today in the habits, gastronomy and identity of the populations.
Among the products most associated with the region is white wine, known in Portugal as Alvarinho and in Spain as Albariño, produced on both sides of the River Minho. The publication explains that the variety is present in both Portuguese Vinhos Verdes and Galician Rías Baixas wines, being one of the best-known references in that border area.
The growing demand for Galicia is not limited to cities. Many visitors mainly seek out the region’s coastal areas and natural landscapes. Places such as Praia das Catedrais, known for the arches carved into the cliffs, and the Cíes islands are among the most popular spots during the summer months. From there, many tourists continue their trip to Asturias and Cantabria.
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